Togo aims to combat hunger and strengthen the independence of farming families by reintroducing Fonio, a resilient grain.
The agricultural situation in Togo is dire. Harvests are becoming increasingly scarce, and many families are struggling to survive. In the past, traditional grain varieties were displaced as commonly grown maize or imported rice from Asia became more widely available and affordable. However, this has changed in recent years. Maize yields have declined, and all imports have become more expensive. As a result, hunger and poverty in rural areas have increased dramatically, leaving many families unsure of how to adequately feed themselves and their children.
Efforts are now underway to address this crisis. The cooperative POUST (Pôle d’Unité de Service et de Transformation du Fonio) has rediscovered Fonio, an ancient African grain and a type of millet, and is supporting small-scale farming families in cultivating it. Fonio is nutritious, promotes self-sufficiency, provides income, and is much better adapted to changing climate conditions than maize and other grains.